Chapter: The Severe Prohibition of Riba (Usury)

Allah the Exalted says:
“Those who consume riba will rise on the Day of Resurrection no differently than one whom Satan has driven to madness by his touch. That is because they say, ‘Trade is but the same as riba,’ whereas Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba. Whoever receives an admonition from his Lord and desists may keep what has passed, and his case rests with Allah; but whoever relapses—those are the people of the Fire, remaining therein forever. Allah obliterates riba but nurtures charitable donations.” 2:275–276
—and His words, “O you who believe, fear Allah and abandon whatever remains of riba.” 2:278

As for the authentic hadiths on the subject, they are well known, among them the narration of Abu Hurayrah mentioned in the previous chapter.

[Commentary]

The compiler—may Allah have mercy on him—included in his Riyad al-Salihin a chapter entitled “The Severe Prohibition of Riba.” Riba literally denotes either an excess or a deferment, for it involves either an increase of one thing over its counterpart or a delay in taking possession. Allah, exalted is He, has clearly set forth the ruling on riba in His Book and has detailed the stern warning attached to it. The Prophet, blessings and peace be upon him, likewise explained the ruling and its grave consequences. He further clarified the circumstances and forms in which riba occurs, stating that it applies to six commodities: gold, silver, wheat, barley, dates, and salt. These six items are the primary categories in which riba is realized.